Two progressive district attorneys in Georgia, Shalena Cook Jones of Chatham County and Deborah Gonzalez of Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties, are facing intense blowback and re-election races testing whether progressive prosecutors in liberal areas of the state can withstand criticism from Republicans and some local Democrats. Elected in 2020 amidst nationwide protests against racial injustice, Cook Jones and Gonzalez vowed to implement criminal justice reforms focusing on diversion programs, rehabilitation, and shorter sentences for nonviolent offenders.
Despite their promises, the progressive DAs have come under fire for low conviction rates and alleged mismanagement, with critics accusing them of letting individuals convicted of violent crimes slip through the cracks. Among those challenging them are prominent Democrats like Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz and Savannah Mayor Van Johnson. This backlash is not unique to Georgia, as Republicans in several states have targeted progressive prosecutors whom they derogatorily label as “woke prosecutors.”
Cook Jones unseated a tough-on-crime Republican incumbent in 2020 and was the first African American woman elected in her county, while Gonzalez’s territory covers a mix of liberal and conservative areas. Both DAs have faced criticism for their approaches to prosecution, with opponents raising concerns about the functionality of their offices. However, Cook Jones and Gonzalez defend themselves, attributing the criticism to political motivations and insisting that their focus is on pursuing justice through a different lens.
The progressive prosecutors have also had to grapple with high staff turnover since taking office. While turnover is common when new DAs assume their roles, the exodus from Cook Jones and Gonzalez’s offices has been particularly notable. Former prosecutors and staff members have cited policy disagreements, poor management, and staffing shortages as contributing factors to the tumult within these offices.
Despite the challenges they have faced, both Cook Jones and Gonzalez have made efforts to address issues within their jurisdictions, such as expunging records, resentencing individuals, and referring juveniles to restorative justice programs. They have also cleared large case backlogs exacerbated by the pandemic. However, legal reprimands, ethical complaints, and allegations of misconduct have added to the pressure on the progressive prosecutors in Georgia.
As they navigate re-election campaigns and continue their work, Cook Jones and Gonzalez remain steadfast in their commitment to reforming the criminal justice system. They have faced relentless criticism and scrutiny but are determined to focus on their mission of promoting fairness, equity, and accountability in their roles as district attorneys in Georgia.